Motor Vehicle Fatalities: The Leading Cause of Work-Related Deaths

Have you ever slept through your alarm? 

Forgotten to fill your car’s gas tank before work?

We’re only human, so circumstances like these happen all the time! These situations can cause drivers to speed, forget to buckle seatbelts, or drive distracted, which can all result in fatal accidents.  

Jobs like truckers, delivery drivers, service technicians, or sales representatives cause employees to spend extensive hours on the road. All people in these occupations face a high risk of motor vehicle fatalities. The CDC reports that about three workers die from these crashes each day.

According to this USA Today article that ranks the most dangerous jobs in the America, there were 24.7 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers in the year they conducted their study. They go on to say, in this relatively large field, which employs nearly 3 million drivers — these occupations have the most workers out of all the dangerous jobs listed.

Additionally, Workerslaw.com reports that every year, driving remains the leading cause of work-related fatalities across the United States. 
These are some alarming statistics, so here are some ways we recommend staying safe on the roads: 

Avoid the Roads During Busy Times If You Can 

Pinnacol Insurance shared that the most dangerous times to be on the roads are in the mornings from 9am to 11am, and afternoons at 4pm when studies show that the most accidents occur. If you’re able to avoid driving during these time frames it’s highly recommended. If you can’t, make sure to be extra alert during these busy hours. 

Know the Signs of Fatigue and How to Manage It

Fatigue is a huge risk factor for drivers. Drivers must make sure they are getting enough rest before driving on the roads or operating heavy machinery. Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per a night will help prevent feelings drowsy at the wheel.  

For those on the road all day long, taking frequent breaks is also helpful. A short break every 2 hours can help you stay alert and refreshed. 
Additionally, knowing the signs of fatigue like yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty concentrating. If you ever experience these symptoms while on the road, pull over safely and rest. 

Don’t Be Pressured to Take Risks While Driving  

Many employees feel the pressure of responding to work texts and emails ASAP. Employers are encouraged to prioritize their employee’s safety by enforcing that they do not text, email, Zoom, or answer work phone calls while driving. 

Employers should aim to create a culture of safety where employees are encouraged to prioritize safety over productivity. This includes providing support for safety concerns without fear of retaliation. 

Add Dash Cameras to Work Vehicles and Other Safety Technology 

Dash cameras are beneficial to both employees and employers. If an accident does occur, it will be recorded in the event that a workers’ compensation case takes place. 

There are now both inward and outward facing dash cameras available, with some so advanced that they can even detect when a driver is picking up their cellphone to take a call. 

In addition to these, equipping work vehicles with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collision avoidance systems can help prevent accidents. 

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Want You to Be Safe Driving to Work

Staying off the roads during busy times, leveraging safety technology, and creating a culture of safety at your workplace will all help prevent motor vehicle fatalities. 

If you have any questions regarding this topic, feel free to contact our team of Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys. We want to help you stay safe!